I have an AWD and the only thing that differs from the FWD in the way of maintenance, is the rear differential oil should be replaced at around 100K km. I was quoted about $200 CDN for this service. I'm not aware of any other services needed over and above what the FWD model requires.

Get the AWD model!

After owning this car I will never buy another vehicle without AWD or 4WD. It's just far too much fun to drive in the snow! If you don't experience snow where you live it's simply brilliant on wet or gravel roads as well.

 

Thanks for the info, not so much some where I am but plenty of wet and gravelly roads.

 

I have owned a CX-3 AWD since 2015.

UK, scheduled services intervals are every 12500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. No different from FWD.

Franchised dealer labour costs are high, so after 5 years I switched to an independent garage for servicing.

If you visit the Owner’s section of the mazda.co.uk website, you can download an Owner’s Manual ahead of purchasing the car & the service schedules & items that are checked, replaced etc. for the different variants & countries are listed within it.

 

I've owned AWD and FWD CX-3s. There are a few downsides to AWD, there is about a 2% gas milage penalty plus the fuel tnks is a bit smaller (to make room for the rear diff I guess). If you drive on rough roads there is more 'stuff' to break or wear out on the rear suspention.
I don't want or need AWD but only AWD is available in the US now.

 

Transmission fluid and filter, transfer case fluid and rear differential fluid.
I change it every 50,000 miles/ 80,000 km's.
I know the manufacturer recommend services are not what i do.
If you want it to last as long as possible change your fluids with the recommend type regularly.
I do however use different engine oil.
0w40 full synthetic instead of 0w20.
Every 3,000 miles or 5,000 km's.
2021 cx-3 awd fully loaded.